3M Respirators Don/Doff Tips for Covid 19 

Thank you, stay safe!

noth606 yea the Mask comes with instruction for such, just be sure to bother reading them. The flipping supermarket is hazard enough for me. Everyone is going to the same watering hole. Aisles are never wide enough,lol.

Steve Lopez they don't all come with manuals at least for 3M and specifically with 3M the procedure depends on the type of filter used. I use a 3M 6500QL with 3M 6035 P3 R filters when I go shopping :-), with those filters negative check is by pressing in or squeezing the filters together, but with other filters it's completely different, 6099 you have to cover the outside of the filters with the palm of your hand, 20xx you have to push your thumb in the middle.

Hi, thought i could be nice enough to link to the full training video for the 3M 7500 series in case anyone wants: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-mlWyMPFwEI8.html The same way, 3M also made video's for the 6000, 6500, 7500, and FF-400(of which some of the practices are applicable to 6800 and 7800 series). FF-400 training video's: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-uPLi6jcY7XU.html

Thanks Tony, great to hear from you! Keep safe and stay thirsty for knowledge my friend!

You're very welcome!

You are correct! I use one wipe for the outside and get a new wipe for the inside as to not cross from dirtier to cleaner. Given this was meant to be a demo I did not go into such details, but you are absolutely correct.

Thanks a lot.

You could, but might not fit very well over the respirator.

Thanks, you too!

You are correct - if there is concern the wearer has infection, this is does not protect others. There should be a provider screening in place to prevent this. Soaking/washing with soap and water cleans dust/dirt/residue, but disinfection with a disinfectant product is still recommended.

Great suggestion!

There is studies that suggest UV sterilization works - I cannot comment on the efficacy, i have not used it.

Reason I store mine in a bag is because I also have vapor cartridges, and I do not want odors being absorbed, and I also do not want the filters coming into contact with other surfaces. It is not necessary to store it in a bag though. multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/1793959O/cleaning-and-disinfecting-3m-reusable-respirators-following-potential-exposure-to-coronaviruses.pdf has some info about using soap/water. The report states alcohol has shown to degrade the inhalation valves after multiple soaks in alcohol,.

Yes, leave the cardridge on, this makes sure the plastic on the mask does not wear as fast and avoids you accidentically dirtying the side were you breath clean air through, you do not have to dismantle the filter, just get a paper towel, make it slightly damp by spraying with 70% isopropyl alcohol and clean the outer plastic, make sure the alcohol solution does not touch the HEPA filter inside. Obviously if you are doing a Full cleanup of the mask itself, you do want to remove the filter and fully disassemble all parts of the mask, since the filter inside the cardridge must absolutely not be become wet or be directly cleaned, or else you damage it, causing filter effectiveness to half, making it useless. 7093 and 6035 filters are made to last a epidemic, since (compared to the round ones) only air you actually breath will be filtered until it becomes hard to breath (it becomes better at filtering, but less air can pass through), since it has collected so many particles, they are specifically made so the outer coating were viruses can stay on be cleaned (unlike the round ones, which will be damaged from cleaning).

The wipe is a disinfectant wipe that actually disinfects the mask. Soap and water are better for general cleaning of dirt/dust/residue, but not disinfection

With shortages in N95 masks and no simple methods to disinfect disposable N95 masks, having a reusable mask that can be disinfected with common disinfection supplies is a huge advantage over the disposable mask when you are on the front lines. These masks also have adjustable straps that will allow a more custom fit and more secure protection against leaks.

@@116education4 Thanks Doc. Appreciate the response and stay safe

I would use an actual disinfectant solution, not just sunlight.

Yes - fit testing is a must - ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-fLPInrmBnpQ.html; this video shows how to do a fit test with the mask. You should use at least a P95 or P100 filter.

You are welcome!

You are most welcome. The P100 will be good - rated for 99.97% filtration. Best of luck!

I personally do not cover the exhalation valve - it would make it difficult to breathe efficiently doing this. The exhalation valve is not a risk for the wearer, as it is usually a one-way setup. Hopefully the wearer does not have Covid or has a screening process to ensure they do not have Covid.

Without looking at your mask, I cannot tell you if it is damaged. It should not be from just water/soap/alcohol. Be sure fit test is still good.

If the formula is designed for cleaning surfaces then I would say yes. The EPA has a list of approved disinfectants that I would refer to: www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2

I am sorry but I am not familiar with the P2 classification system. I use N95 or greater filtration rating. As far as the disinfectant, I would recommend an agent that is effective against Covid 19. Here is a list of agents approved by the EPA: www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2. I use peroxide based wipes but let the mask fully dry prior to putting it back on. I clean the inside only when I will be able to let the mask dry overnight.

6035 are considered P3R filters and filter More then N95 masks (99.95% vs 95%), they are considered equivalent to N100. They are Not P2 filters. In Europe, it is more usual to find FFP2, FFP3 and P2, P3 filters, in America it is more usual to find N95, N99, N100 for masks and filters, but when you look at specs, they do more or less the same.

If you're filter is 3M branded, it should provide P100 level filtration. There are a lot of fake products being manufactured and sold so be careful to buy from reputable sources. As far as eating/drinking, I would recommend you find a place that does not have potential Covid patients crossing into or find a good place outdoors away from others. After taking your mask off, be sure to wash your hands well with soap/water. You can store your mask in a small bag if available. I generally avoid eating items in places where there is public tabletops/chairs as I do not know how well it is being cleaned.

Thank you so much for your reply and recommendations, Doctor! These will be very helpful to me. Praying this pandemic will end soon. Take care and be safe always! 🙏😇

@@116education4 by the way Doctor, what are your recommended cleaner for the respirator? Is spraying alcohol and wiping wet wipes then air drying are all good already?

@@locelnavarro6127 Alcohol may cause deterioration in the rubber seals. I use peroxide based wipes and then allow prolonged air drying so I do not have to smell the cleaner odor.

@@116education4 thanks for the advice Doctor. This is very helpful! 🙂

Soaking and cleaning daily with disinfectant can be done, but I would assume it depends on the dilution. Concentrated cleaner may definitely affect the gaskets and elastic banding of the mask over time. UV sterilization may be effective but I would not use it on the filters as studies have shown UV to degrade disposable N95 masks after time.

Keep in mind that different disinfectants have varying amount of required contact time of the chemical with surfaces to completely disinfect. For example, Aqueous alcohol solutions (ethyl or isopropyl) are not as appropriate for surface decontamination because of the evaporative nature of the solution (i.e., it evaporates too fast to disinfect). The CDC has published Chemical Disinfectants Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities in 2008, available via google search, that goes over all the pros and cons of different disinfectants. If you have access to combination Alcohol-Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (PDI Sani-Cloth wipes, some Lysol products), they work great to disinfect. I would caution on alcohol use again, because it is known to degrade rubber seals.

3M recs change when you notice it is becoming more difficult to breathe through the filters. That suggests they are congested with particle matter.

You cannot. These pink p100 filters are strictly disposable and cannot be washed. 7093 is the pandemic filter and the proper one to be wearing in this Covid situation right now. They are available for sale everywhere online.

The pink P100 filters are not meant to be disinfected. You can use until it becomes difficult to breathe through it, and then it needs to be replaced.

cover the p100 filter with nurse head cover, then throw away the cover after each procedure.

If you are not in a dusty/high particulate matter environment, my personal opinion is at least 90 days depending on how much exposure you have. If you are using in a highly particulate matter environment, the filters will likely become harder to breathe out of due to the filter becoming clogged.

Jose Miguel Castillo Duran 3M says change them once the pandemic is over if you're using 6035 filters. They will never let viruses etc through even if you wear them every day for years, so long as they aren't physically damaged. The way you know you want to change them is that it becomes harder to breathe in through them.

noth606 So 6035 filters are good enough for Covid-19. They are considered P-2 (N-95 equivallent when used on half face masks). Also can you guide me which disinfectant is safe to use for inside or outside surfaces without damaging the mask or to touch face if used inside? Lots if thanks.

CosmetiqueClinic no, 6035 are P3 R, so equivalent to N99/N100 not N95. There is no 'consideration' part in it, that's the raw rating and what it says on them. So they are guaranteed to filter at least 99.95%. For the mask there are many different options depending on what's available to you, I often just wipe it down with the local disinfectant wipes we have here, as they also give a lemon scent. I don't recall right now what the active ingredients are but since what's available changes by country and region I'd say look for something that's safe to use on bare skin if you are going to use wipes, but if you want to dunk it in a bucket you can make a mild chlorine solution or other non alcohol stuff except peroxide. But if you want to use a bucket you need to take the filters off and wipe the outside of them with a disinfectant wipe anyway, and then rinse and dry the mask after you soak it for a while, probably 15min or so. But regarding the filters I use 6035 because they are easy to find in Europe but there might be others that are easier to find where you are. I do suggest using the cased ones like 6xxxx series rated P2/N95 or higher, P100 are also good as are 6038 because you can wipe down the outside and put on and doff the mask without touching the actual filtering part which would be where viruses gather. Also, places that sell masks often also sell the stuff to clean them including wipes and solutions to immerse them in, that makes it easier. I'd say wipe down is the easiest way to keep a personal mask clean, its quick and mess free. However if for whatever reason you have to share one mask with more people I'd go for a more thorough cleaning by immersing it.

noth606 Thank you very very much Dr. Desai. I wanted to ask if 2135 bu 4M are good enough for Covid-19?

Yes, from my research, the recommended replacement period is when you notice it becomes to difficult to breath with the mask on. The filters actually perform more efficiently as they trap more particulate matter. Since we are not in extremely dusty/high particulate matter environments in the typical medical setting, these filters will last much longer. I would not wipe the actual filter pad with anything as moisture on the filter itself might compromise it.

@@116education4 thank you for the tips. we have a similar 3M mask. i have the p100/OV cartridge 60921. Is is advisable to change the filter every 6 months, actively working in a covid ward.

@@adiandre526 There is no definite replacement period that I have found - I have read when it becomes difficult to breathe through the filters is a good indicator. I don't think there is going to be a good scientific based timeframe to determine replacement. I think 90 days would be a good timeframe or based on comfort level and level of exposure to true Covid.

@@116education4 ok i got it...thanks a lot... be safe..

No - you would have to add a particle filter pad to it.

A P100 is good - better than N95 or P95.

A P100 filters 99.97% of airborne particles; I do not think the environment of use is going to affect the filtration. The P indicates there is strong resistance to oily particles as well; this is not a concerning matter in most medical settings, but its an added bonus. I am not aware of 37173.

It doesn't matter if its made for medical use or not. Both have to meet the 42 CFR 84 standard. As long as it has an N,R,P 9x or 100 rating, it will work for medical and industrial.

@@WM3A thank you so much

@@116education4 thank you

I keep it in a plastic bag with string cinch closure.

@@116education4 Thanks Doc and how many days can this filter last?

@@neilmorgan7578 Recommended replacement is when it becomes difficult to breathe with the mask on. Low particulate matter environment should allow prolonged use

How about if after sanitizing, I put all the item including filter(P100) to UV sterilizer box, is that OK??

p100

7093 or 2091 , both are p100 filters , the difference is 7093 comes with a plastic cartridge and 2091 doesn't have it but they are comparable in protecting

The exhaled gases goes out a nonfiltered exhalation valve. This is not an appropriate mask to use in sterile environments or for sterile procedures as the exhalation gases is not filtered.

A simple work around for that is to attach a regular surgical mask ( the ones we used before this pandemic) between the filters , place it such that it loosely fits over the exhalation port ( the center of the mask ) . This prevents exhaled contents from splashing out . The mask itself will prevent most saliva and other splashes , what usually comes out of the exhalation port is condensed water . In my experience it doesn't increase the work of breathing as it just adds a thin layer over the exhalation port which is lesser than the resistance of a standard n95 mask .

Glad it was helpful!

This website has a list of EPA approved disinfectants for use against Covid19: www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2. I would recommend using a disinfectant that is on that list, whether it is chlorhexidine based or other. I use peroxide based wipes. Not sure if any better or worse.

3m has a technical bulletin out about cleaning mask and filters. www.3m.com/3M/en_US/worker-health-safety-us/covid19/#cleaning-and-disinfecting-respirators

The information I have found recommends when you notice it is more difficult to breath with the mask on indicating the filters are congested. The filters are supposed to become more efficient as they trap more particles.

It's unclear how many months it will last, so as long as you experience difficulty in breathing that's the sign that filter needs to be replaced.

3M recs change when you notice it is becoming more difficult to breathe through the filters. That suggests they are congested with particle matter.

Alcohol is ok to use, but it is shown to cause the seals to deteriorate after multiple uses. I am not certain on UV sterilization. Here is a list of disinfectants for use against Covid 19: www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2-covid-19

116 Education thank you!

When it becomes difficult to breathe with the mask on - this is usually a sign that the filter needs changing. It really depends on the environment you are using it in...if it is a very dusty environment, the filter is going to become congested a lot quicker. If you are in a hospital environment, most of these environments are clean and the filter should last for an extended period of time....my take is at least 90 days in a clean environment.

Clorox wipes would be good - here is the EPA list of disinfectant products that are recommended for use against Covid 19....it's not inclusive of all products, but it is pretty comprehensive. I would be sure whatever disinfectant you are using is on this list. www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2

Jif antibacterial. Or anything that has sodium hypochlorite content

www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2 has a list of approved disinfectants against Covid 19. I would recommend using a disinfectant on this list. Diluted bleach has been shown to be effective, however, I cannot comment on the dilution formula.

It appears that cartridge is only a vapor cartridge - designed to absorb odors/vapors. This will not provide any protection against Covid 19. You will have to purchase a separate filter pad that attaches over the vapor cartridge and a plastic cover to seal it to the cartridge. 3M makes these products. Be sure to get at least a N95 or P95 or higher filter pad.

You have a 7502 3m mask with p95 filters. And yes you can use p99/100 filters. The filter determines the filtration percentage

The filter determines the % of filtration. The mask does not.

Thank you so much!!!❤️🙏🏻

I purchased the 3M disc filters on Amazon. Particulate Filter 2091, P100 or 3M 7093 Particulate Filter, P100 are still available. Good luck!

N95, P95, or P100 would be good.

The filters are not meant to be cleaned. They are designed to be used until you experience difficulty breathing through them, and then be disposed and replaced. I would recommend using a disinfectant that is on the EPA approved list. www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2

This just happened to my mask spontaneously the other day while I was in a room and I was wondering the same thing.

Hali M Do you still hear it until now?

@@rendalnaj123 Yes, I readjusted it but it still makes the sound. I can only assume that the actual filter circles became loosened but I hope that's not the case as I was wearing the mask in a COVID patient's room at the time.

Hali M it’s normal for the mask to do that . Don’t worry . I use 3m 7502 series high performance silicone .nits very comfortable to wear as I use them for 12 hrs shift .

I suspect its likely the exhalation valve. Mine does the same thing

I am sorry I am not familiar with the P3R filter classification system; I do not know if this is safe to use around Covid 19 patients. If it is equivalent to N95/P95 or higher, then it should be safe, but I am unable to find this information.

I found video here about them thanks a lot for your care

Sheila ann Cerna-evangelio just use alcohol wipes, good enough for your hands, right.

There are many specifications for the appropriate UV source that will truly disinfect, unfortunately, I am not aware of the specifics on this technology. www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2 has a list of disinfectants that are approved against Covid 19 if that helps.

Uv works too! It should be UVC radiation

While u v C works as a disinfectant, the problem is that the 6200 series and 7502 series have thermoplastic components that are known to degrade to u v radiation ( most studies are based on sunlight exposure and not u v c per se ) . Youre better off using hypochlorite or alcohol

However I do use UV C to sterilise the filters separately from the mask . I usually use hypochlorite soaking for the mask and straps and my 3M goggles as I have ready access to this ( we use hypochlorite as a disinfectant in the O.R. ) . I disconnect the filters and sterilise them using UV C .

ex-hail port......

It is different for every individual - some people can wear for extended time without difficulty, others have trouble. Do what is comfortable for you.

filter 3M 2091

The vapor cartridge is not as important as long as you have at least an N95 filter. 3M has many different types of attachments. There are just N95, P95, P100 filters that are circular usually, and then there are filters that attached to a vapor cartridge. As long as the filter component is there.

If your mask uses polypropylene and your UV bulbs generates ozone, you can damage the thermoplastic, as ozone degrades polypropylene, it might also damage the filter of a paper mask, including the rubber that holds it on your face.

If you are using the paper ones (n95,n100,p100, etc), these are meant for 1 time use and disposing after use. Cleaning these with water, alcohol, etc will damage the filter capability of these masks, as the entire mask is basically a filter. Reusing these paper masks is akin to reusing a filter, which means over time the filter effectiveness will lower, making it a risk. If you want to reuse these, putting it in a oven at 70°C for 30 Minutes is safer and easier than your UV solution: www.reddit.com/r/COVID19/comments/fo0rpe/stanford_researchers_confirm_n95_masks_can_be/ Otherwise, another way would be to keep the mask in a dry clean place for at least 10 days, then rotate masks. www.journalofhospitalinfection.com/article/S0195-6701(20)30046-3/fulltext If you want to reuse masks, just get a mask like the 3M 6000 series the guy in the video uses, or better yet, the 3M 6500 series or 7500 series (best), these are more comfortable as they use silicone and thermoplastic, make make sure to choose the exact right size for your face though, or else you will not get a proper seal. Combine with P3 (Europe) or P100 (America) filters (like the cardridges), you will have a much better time and the mask is more comfy too.

Wipe it with a disinfectant wipe until the strap appears moist with disinfectant. It's a little challenging due to the constant stretching but get a firm grasp and slide the wipe down the strap.

Depending on the packaging, some have a P95 filter and some have P100. The P95 filters 95% like the N95 masks do, which is what is used in hospitals.

I can smell a fart with my 6200 and 7093 so i think its normal but because it doesn't filter scent it filters virus particules but i would love to know if im wrong.

If you do not have a vapor cartridge attached, odors will cross through. If you have a vapor cartridge but have stored the mask in an area with odors, the vapor cartridges have probably absorbed the odors and you are smelling the absorbed odors. As long as you still have the P95/P100 filter on you should still have particulate matter filtration.

@@116education4 thanks for the reply...

No. It's just a flexible flap with no filter that opens with air pressure.

@@OU81TWO thanks

I am sorry, I am not familiar with the P3 classification system. I am not sure if the 2135 filters are safe for Covid19 use.

@@116education4 P3 is the highes level for particulate filtration in EU. P1=P95, P2=P99, P3=P100

yes if anyone knows about safety of 2135 filters please share

I cannot comment on model number, but would recommend either N95, P95 or P100 level filtration capability.

The vapor cartridge does not contribute any particle filtration; it does not hurt to have it, but you have to be sure you have an N95 or higher particle filter and it can be either with or without the vapor cartridge.

@@116education4 yes thank you for this information. I'll be make sure to get a higher particle filter.

The filters are recommended ok to use until you notice more difficulty breathing with the mask indicating the filters are becoming congested. In ICU setting this should be for quite a long time since there is not large amount of dirt/dust that will be clogging the filter

At least N95 or higher filtration is recommended. Letting the mask dry appropriately and air out is probably best way to prevent alcohol smell

No, I don’t have an exact value in hours, but usually they last up to six months before you have to change

@@vallybaskar oho 🤔

Shashikiran Prabhu use p100 filters 2097 . It’s protects you 99.97%

At least P95 or P100 if you can get it.

Not from what I can tell - you need particulate filtration, not vapor filtration. You can get a P95 filter pad that goes over the vapor cartridge.

There are studies that show UVGI disinfects surfaces so one would assume it is safe to use on these masks as well....some of the studies have shown it does degrade disposable N95 masks after several rounds, so it probably would cause degradation of the filters on these masks as well.

Most people fit a medium, you can look at the 3m website for sizing.

@Fact Checker It's designed to protect yourself. What's wrong with that?

@Fact Checker Nothing wrong with protecting yourself

@Fact Checker Though it is useless against spreading SARS-CoV-2, have you recently been to the supermarket or any place with a lot of people? At least in my place, i rarely see anyone walking with a surgical mask, even more rarely correctly, some taking the mask off periodically or just covering their mouth (leaving their nose uncovered). Being the only person wearing a surgical mask is just asking to get infected, were a N95 mask without vents probably protects others and yourself (if you can find such), but otherwise a P3/P100 filter and reusable mask make sure at least you do not get Covid-19 if you were not infected yet, otherwise making yourself a spreader and if unlucky a soon to be dead person. If everyone were to be using surgical masks correctly, and i mean Everyone, then you are right, which is why i think a law should be passed were masks should be required (People are already being fined hundreds if they do not wear masks in public transport, lets extend that to more places). In the medical section obviously you should never wear mask with vents. I have not tried this yet, but maybe wearing a surgical mask under a reusable mask or putting something (i don't know what works, cotton might not be enough?) on the exhalation valve does the job? Though you probably won't get a good air seal or get breathing problem fairly fast.

rahul karwa once per month

@@walterestrada9523 thanks

At least N95, P95, P100 are recommended

Yes, that is also a way to disinfect the mask - 3m recs doing it in this manner, but depending on the environment you are using it in, this may or may not be easy to do. If your work environment allows it, it is definitely a good way - just remember to remove the filter/vapor cartridges before you soak the mask.

@@116education4 what kind of disinfect can I use and where I can find appropriate proportions for the solution?

@@user-jb3rb7pg7m multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/1793959O/cleaning-and-disinfecting-3m-reusable-respirators-following-potential-exposure-to-coronaviruses.pdf

@@116education4 thank you

If you have been exposed to a known Covid patient or a patient with Covid symptoms, I would definitely sanitize.

3m has a technical bulletin for cleaning mask and filters. www.3m.com/3M/en_US/worker-health-safety-us/covid19/#cleaning-and-disinfecting-respirators

Thank you!

Wearing a mask like this will require you to speak louder and enunciate clearly. It can be harder to hear with normal volume.

buy the 7000 series mask body if you want to be able to communicate more.

Soap and water is great to simply clean dirt/residue off, but it may not necessarily disinfect the mask.

ODD!

I suspect you care more about not catching COVID than weird looks about your protection fashion

They are reusable until you notice difficulty breathing through them, at which point they should be replaced.

So how to clean them? Can you spray the outside of them with alcohol 70% If not how to clean these filters with the process of mask cleaning ?

@@amrsamy4245 The filters cannot be cleaned...they trap particles and keep them in the filter. Periodically the filter must be disposed and replaced. The filters are not designed to be disinfected.

So how to clean the mask when i finish working with suspected covid patients?

Please just tell me. That good anti corona or not???

I have no idea if some of Lysol products actually work, at least some show up on EPA's list for desinfectans against SARS-CoV-2: www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2-covid-19 Here is Lysol's page for products that Lysol says work against SARS-CoV-2: www.lysol.com/disinfecting-wipes/disinfecting-wipes/ Make sure to 'religiously' follow the Usage Information (each product has Usage Information with instructions). But in any case, if you want to be sure, just a bottle (preferably a spray bottle, obviously not when that is quite a bit more expensive) of 70% isopropyl or 80% ethanol, clean paper towels and desinfect with that. But with all desinfectans remember to First clean with warm or hot water and soap, as desinfectants do Not work (or at least not properly) if surface is dirty. Desinfectans are Not cleaning products and will Not replace water and soap.

@@funnyarc thanks for the reply, on the back of my lysol that i bought a year before covid 19 it had "coronavirus (human variant)" in the list it disinfects. Im just mainly wondering if lysol is too harsh on the 3m materials and could compromise the masks effectiveness.

Ahem...... Yeh, alcohol will damage your mask over time, i mean, all cleaning methods will (even if a tiny bit), but apparently alcohol will do this quite a lot faster (damages the thermoplastic layers and silicon of reusable masks), so you probably don't want to use it on 3M's masks, but in cases you must (medical section?), it's is a option i guess... I tried searching what is in the Lysol desinfecting wipes, but they do not list any ingredients and % on their product page (which is bad, imagine if they put something in that people are allergic to, or damages surfaces...), without the ingredients, i have no idea Why it works or if it actually does (maybe it doesn't at all), based of other websites, it appears some of their wipes use ethanol and isopropyl (4-5% or 40-50% whatever), but the concentration is important, if it's too little or too much (You actually want 70-75% isopropanol or 80% ethanol), it will not do well, you might as well just use alcohol and clean paper towels and not rely on some "brand", everything else is just additives and parfums. Btw, if you are storing alcohol, put it in a cold storage, you don't need it to be warm to desinfect, storing warm will slowly lower the concentration and dry it, basically refrigerating will extend the product life, additionally if the alcohol is cold, it will dry slower when applied, allowing a contact time of 1-2 minutes, which is important, as alcohol needs to stay on a surface for a certain time to kill viruses, but you should clean the surface Beforehand with warm water and soap, otherwise alcohol will have a much weaker effect, and may not be effective at all (This also applies to hand sanitizer alcohol). The recommended way by 3M is to clean with warm water and afterward desinfect with a certain concentration of diluted sodium hypoclorite in cold water, since it desinfects without damaging the mask as fast, but you need to clean the mask throughly beforehand otherwise bleach might not even work, but i guess the same applies to any alcohol, which does not work properly on dirty surfaces (i do not mean surfaces that Look clean, but Are clean), desinfectants are Not cleaning products, they are desinfectants. multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/1793959O/cleaning-and-disinfecting-3m-reusable-respirators-following-potential-exposure-to-coronaviruses.pdf Sodium hypoclorite is in many bleach products (it is what makes bleach do well), but note that some budget ones instead use hydrogen peroxide or lower concentration of sodium hypoclorite, usually i see Clorox being recommended, as their products have the right concentration, but in case they do don't anymore (for "eco" or budget purposes?), you just want around 5-6.15% sodium hypoclorite (no matter the brand). multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/735976O/disinfection-with-bleach-tech-talk.pdf Note that all bleach products have the tendency to release Chloric Vapours, which can be Deathly, so never breath that in, (Especially at higher dosis). Also, never do this without rubber gloves, the ones that extend a little to your arm, never do without protective glasses (That can protect against water, air, particles, vapour, etc), never do without protective clothing, and Especially never in a space with bad airflow (Outside with clean air and wind going opposite of your face is best, you get the idea?), also if you can get masks with chlorine filter, that would be good, but otherwise, just Don't don't breath the vapours, no matter what. Use warm water that does not exceed temperatures of 49°C or 120°F (more will damage the thermoplastic), you can use a thermometer, that you know actually works right now (thermometers can become inaccurate over time, if it's inaccurate, some thermometers can be calibrated). 3M also says you could optionally use a detergent in the water (can not contain any oils, lanolin or solvents) to clean the mask even better, unfortunately they never gave a "Example" of a product to use... What i think and hope could be fine, are those "pure" dish washing soaps, listing ingredients to Only have anionic, nonionic, amphoteric surfactants, and maybe glycorine (Is the stuff that makes liquid thick). Fully disassemble all parts of the mask (Don't clean the filters, cleaning the filters will permanently damage and halve the filterage, making it essentially useless (though, if it's the 3M 6035, 7093 or other filter with plastic housing, you can clean the plastic housing with alcohol, but the inner filter Must not be become wet), the same applies to paper N95 masks, which are essentially filters themselves). Throughly and carefully (don't want to damage it) clean the parts of the mask with the warm water and soap solution, afterward make sure all the soap is rinsed off the parts, needs to be completly clean. For desinfecting, according to 3M, you want concentrations of 5000ppm, which can be gotten on a 1:10 basis (1 part of 5-6% sodium hypoclorite and 9 parts water), use cold water, desinfecting effectiveness will not be lost, warm water will just cause More Deathly Chloric Vapour to be released faster, Use good protective wear like i said Earlier, then leave the mask parts in the solution for at least 1-2 minutes, afterward throughly rinse the parts of the mask with water, then leave the mask to dry in a clean space, then assemble the parts. What i usually do is put a clean towel, dry the mask slightly, were i touch most wet spots with the towel (since rubbing will just leave fibers from the towel), then assemble all parts and hang in my bathroom, that i clean beforhand, in a few hours the mask is completely dry and ready for use (it'l smell slightly of bleach, but that's normal, the smell will be gone soon enough). A thought of caution, when throwing away the bleach solution in your toilet, please watch out for the chlorine vapor and splatters, and remember bleach will permanently damage clothing and most fibers and some surfaces. Depending on the usage (were, and how often) you might want to clean the mask periodically, also if you travel and take the mask with you, use a breathable paper bag, plastic might cause water vapor to be trapped, and cause a nice ecosystem for bacteria to grow. TLDR: Sorry for the long write-up, i absolutely hate half truths or explanations that allows a reader/listener to make their Own interpretation (which 70% is full of mistakes), so i tend to just write entire steps detailed, which causes me to almost write small novels xd.

Have fun reading xd Btw: 3M has a full training video for 7500 masks, but most of it is applicable for other masks i guess? ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-mlWyMPFwEI8.html 3M also has training video's for other models, might wanna check search it up on RU-vid?

You can disassemble the mask to inspect the valves.

Inspect the mask for damage or or dried out parts, replace whatever is bad, then do a positive and negative pressure test, were negative implies No air at all for 5 seconds (you essentially choke) and positive means No air goes out, the mask blows up like a tight balloon. Make sure your face is clean, no beards, hair, mouth or nose rings, etc, as these can prevent a good air seal, also make sure the mask is adjusted for your face using the straps, also use the right size/model for your face.

If it is on the EPA approved disinfectant list, then it is likely to be effective. I would ensure you get all of the mask covered.

www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2

3m recommends sodium hypochlorite solution. Alcohol can ruin the valves after 20 cleanings

Yes, it would be an overkill. But yes. But the mask is only as good as your overall hygiene, make sure you perform the correct donning / doffing procedure and hand hygiene

Obviously, even more so since reusable masks give you a better air seal and are more comfy, but remember 6200 uses valves, so your own breath will leave the mask unfiltered, potentionally making you a spreader... but to be honestly, if nobody around you wears a mask, why put yourself at risk of getting infected (if you were not yet), by wearing surgical masks and potentionally ending up dead. I mean, if Everyone used surgical masks, then these 'overkill' masks would not be as needed and we can stop this pandemic Much faster, but we live in a world with egoistical people and we need protection from Those, were unfortunately surgical masks do not help :/. Obviously if you work in the medical section and work with elderly, vulnerable or patients, Do not use masks with vents (N95 without vents or surgical will do) these people can and must not get Covid-19. Btw, remember to periodically clean your reusable mask, follow 3M's instructions: multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/1793959O/cleaning-and-disinfecting-3m-reusable-respirators-following-potential-exposure-to-coronaviruses.pdf Just to let you know, using desinfecting methods with alcohol will eventually damage your mask (thermoplastic), faster then other cleaning methods, using diluted bleach (at a certain concentration) is recommend by 3M, but there is a actual deahly danger of chlorine vapour. But first dismantle the masks and clean the mask throughly with warm water (not exceeding 49°C or 120°F) before desinfecting. Lastly, Don't Clean the filters (and don't clean N95,N99,N100, etc paper masks, as these are essentially a big filter), the most you can do is use 70% isopropyl on the 6035 or 7031 housing, but cleaning the filters themselves will destroy/weaken capability the filters.

@@funnyarc thank you for your time in responding to all the questions. I have made a video on how to filter your exhale valve on 6200 mask. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ZAKh0YMWJPw.html

@@pan2aja I saw, it is indeed a lot better than wearing these masks unfiltered as is. Btw, i am not using 6000 series mask, but 7500 series, is more comfy for me :). And yeh, there is a lot of misinformation on RU-vid (like a guy literally advicing people to clean N95 masks in the sink with water and spray with alcohol :/), and good advice from 3M, and CDC is kinda scattered all over the place and not that easily findable if you don't know exactly what to search for, if i can at least do something and give people a way of thought, i guess that is good for anyone who may stumble here? Like, if you give advice, give the Whole advice, if you give advice while leaving other important information away, you are essentially leaving that for the interpretation of the guy you are advicing, which they will just interpret wrong, like the guy in the video, if you advice wipes, give a advice on What wipes to use and what Not, otherwise people will just wonder what to use and might just use something bad. It doesn't matter if it's slightly complicated, if you simplify too much, you are just leaving holes which people will make mistakes in. One question though, is it harder to breath (like does carbon build up faster), i could guess the flap of the outlet doesn't move as well, preventing air from leaving?

@@funnyarc If you find it helpful I would make you same video but with 7200 and 6800 series.

At least N95 or higher rating filter. It is important to remember the difference between the vapor cartridge and the actual filter. The vapor cartridge does not filter any particulate matter - it only filters out odors. You have to be sure you have an appropriate filter of at least N95 or greater filtration capacity. The mask I am demonstrating has a bayonet attachment in which a variety of different filters or vapor cartridge/filter combos can be attached. The 3M website has a good list of all the different products.

2091, 6035 or 7093 P100 cartridges

Tnx for your replies. Praying we can surpass this pandemic

@@DrTJTechie Will 6092 filters not do?

@@donsantosimagedx3282 Depends on the availability. In my place, I have somehow procured 7093 n 2097 filters. Basically any Cartridge with Particulate filtering capabilities is to be used If I am not wrong. P3 or P100 level is better. Cartridges with plastic housing is preferred

Take the mask apart and use warm water and detergent.

Can't really disinfect the filters, but there are several different types of filters, some of which are encased inside of a plastic cartridge type box; if you have this style, you can wipe disinfect the outer box. There are also circular filters that attach directly to the mask that are open; these you cannot really disinfect, you just have to be careful about performing hand hygiene if you accidentally contact the filter.

@@116education4 can we put those round filters under UV light for some period of time? Will it be helpful?

What you can do is to use Heat & Humidity. First i would like to clarify that this method is for N95 mask decontamination, but im sure that it work also for filters. Basicly put filters into plastic container add little piece of paper towel and saturate this towel with water, close lid of container and put it into oven at 70-85'C for 60min also put termometer into oven to be sure about real temperature inside. But be sure to check www.n95decon.org/publications you can find all facts about decontamination of masks, and other methods like HPS,UV - C,Time.

Either one will provide the recommended degree of filtration for covid in a medical setting.

@@116education4 thanks a lot for quick reply.God bless you

The filters themselves cannot be cleaned. If the filter is encased in a plastic outer box, the outer box can be disinfected with a disinfectant wipe. I would have letting any moisture/fluid contact the filter itself though

ALEX A where did you get the P100 ? This P95 is like a N95 only filters 95% . Th P 100 filters 99.97%. Thanks a lot !

Yes P100 will work with no issues. I use them on my 6100 mask.

That may be acceptable - I cannot comment on efficacy.

If the filter is expired, I would change it.

That would be pointless. Without a cartridge or filter you are just breathing air unprotected.

Both replies are correct

The standard recommendation is N95 or higher...these filters typically have at least a N95 or P95 (sometimes higher) available for attachment

@@Pumkyn www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/all-3m-products/~/All-3M-Products/Personal-Protective-Equipment/Reusable-Respirators/Cartridges-Filters/?N=5002385+8711017+8720539+8720550+8720746+3294857497&rt=r3

@@Pumkyn Amazon has earmarked most of the 3M filters that attach to these masks for medical sales only. There are a lot of "non-3M" filters available, but personally, I would not use anything other than 3M product. The 3M filters are NIOSH-certified and you know the quality is there.